"Concern for man himself and his fate must always form the chief interest for all technical endeavor... in order that the creation of our minds shall be a blessing and not a curse for mankind. Never forget this in the midst of your diagrams and equations". A. Einstein 1931

Scientific progress has been marked by considerable advances in knowledge and by ever-wider applications in the various domains of social life, accompanied by a great improvement in living conditions. However, in spite of the considerable potential offered by the present application of science, entire populations are living in poverty and a worldwide deterioration in the environment presents a serious threat to human survival. The bulk of scientific potential is still concentrated in a limited number of countries which alone possess the means to conduct research in certain fields, especially the advanced fields, and therefore hold the keys to the major development of the future.

Science, peace and development are interlinked. The greatest safeguard for peace lies in ensuring that the benefits of science are made available to all countries and to all people on an equitable basis.

For all these reasons, the celebration of World Science Day serves to remind us what science is for, namely peace and development. This annual occasion is a regular opportunity to reflect on how science can best serve this purpose.

The celebration of World Science Day provides a good opportunity to recall the national and international commitment to share knowledge and to create a new solidarity between and within countries.

Furthermore, World Science Day and the activities which accompany it, highlights the important contribution that scientific knowledge makes to society, invites the public to participate in scientific debates and encourages interest in scientific pursuits.

Official Statements